Magnesium ribbon is burnt in an atmosphere of nitrogen gasto form solid magnesium nitride.

When magnesium ribbon is burnt in an atmosphere of nitrogen gas, the reaction produces magnesium nitride. Here are the steps:

1. Ensure safety measures: Before starting the experiment, make sure you are wearing appropriate safety gear, including safety goggles and gloves.

2. Prepare the magnesium ribbon: Clean the magnesium ribbon with sandpaper to remove any oxide layer on its surface. This will allow the magnesium to react more readily with the nitrogen gas.

3. Burn the magnesium ribbon: Hold one end of the magnesium ribbon with a pair of tongs. Ignite the other end with a Bunsen burner. Once the magnesium starts burning, it will continue to burn on its own.

4. Introduce nitrogen gas: As soon as the magnesium starts burning, introduce the nitrogen gas. This can be done by directing the flow of nitrogen gas towards the burning magnesium.

5. Formation of magnesium nitride: The burning magnesium reacts with the nitrogen gas to form magnesium nitride, a solid. The reaction is exothermic, releasing a lot of heat and light.

The chemical equation for this reaction is: 3Mg(s) + N2(g) -> Mg3N2(s)

This means that three moles of magnesium react with one mole of nitrogen gas to produce one mole of magnesium nitride.

6. Collect and analyze the product: After the reaction is complete, allow the product to cool before collecting it for analysis. Magnesium nitride is a yellowish-brown solid.

Remember to handle the product with care, as magnesium nitride reacts with water to produce magnesium hydroxide and ammonia gas, which can be harmful if inhaled.